In this form of internet scam, the scammer poses as a longtime acquaintance/family and requests to get to you. They contact you on social media or telephone with an air of familiarity. Then next comes the barrage of excuses why they are stuck in a remote location and can’t get out.

One of the favorite reasons they give is that they got mugged. Another is that they lost some essential possession and needed urgent help.

Then, they go on to ask for some form of financial aid from you. The moment you grant it, these fraudsters got you.

Always scrutinize “familiar” contacts before granting any requests.

A person impersonating your high school buddy should know what your buddy knows, such as where you both hung out and played football. If they don’t, end the communication.